FIELD OF INVENTION

[001] The present invention generally relates to applicators for domestic use. More specifically, the present invention relates to an applicator that is portable and capable of storing and dispensing content such as soap, gel, personal care product, cleaning agent, cosmetics and the like.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

[002] Applicators are generally used for domestic use such as for bathing, washing the hands, washing of dishes, and the like. Typically, the applicators include a housing for storing a chemical such as soap or gel in liquid or paste form. The housing presents a cleaning medium in the form of sponge, brush, loofah and the like. A user dispenses the liquid from the housing and uses the cleaning medium for bathing, washing the hands, washing of dishes, and the like.

[003] Several applicators have been disclosed in the past. One such example is disclosed in a United States granted patent No. 6,210,064, entitled, "Soap-Fillable Brush with sealed actuator" ("the '064 Patent") . The '064 Patent discloses a fluid-containing brush having a housing with a generally cylindrical wall open at one end and closed at the other end by a base carrying the brush bristles. The housing defines a fluid reservoir and the base has a central opening therein closed by a valve member for dispensing liquid to the brush bristles. The valve is normally spring-biased closed and has a valve stem extending upwardly through the reservoir and having its upper end connected to an actuator button which is received in an opening in a cap removably attached to the housing.

[004] Another example is disclosed in a PCT Publication No. 2015/077852 (WO2015/077852 Al), entitled "Portable device with receptacle for washing soap and recess for household sponges and loofahs" ("the '852 Publication") . The '852 Publication discloses a device comprising a preferably rounded "pot" type of holder of anatomical shape for accommodating the fingers, in order to facilitate handling thereof, and it has an internal compartment for receiving washing soap, toilet soap, detergent and the like. The holder has a cover, on top, with recess and seal, provided with a central opening for receiving the cap-type upper device, where the dishwashing sponge, bathing loofah, steel wool and the like is received. The central opening has a valve that, when pressed, allows the toilet soap/washing soap to flow, emerging from the internal compartment and entering into contact with the loofah sponge in order to facilitate and to optimize activities.

[005] Yet another example is disclosed in a United States granted patent No. 5,188,472, entitled, "Shoe polish application kit" ("the '472 Patent") . The '472 Patent discloses an improved shoe care kit that simplifies the process of shoe polishing by virtue of consolidating conventional shoe shine components such as a brush applicator and/or polishing cloth into a convenient compact storage container. The shoe care kit is designed to be used in conjunction with a commercially produced shoe polish container by clamping the shoe care kit onto the polish container's lid to form an integral kit with the polish container .

[006] The above-discussed applicators are helpful for domestic use such as for bathing, washing the hands, washing of dishes, and the like. Still, there is a need for an improved applicator that is unique, portable and capable of storing and dispensing content such as soap, gel, care products, cosmetics and the like.

SUMMARY

[007 ] It is an object of the present invention to provide an applicator and that avoids the drawbacks of known devices /applicators .

[008] It is another object of the present invention to provide an applicator that is portable and capable of storing and dispensing content including solid, liquid, semi-solid such as such as soap, gel , care product , cleaning agent , cosmetics and the like .

[009] It is another object of the present invention to provide an applicator comprising a container that is disposable after a single use or refillable for prolonged use .

[010] It is another object of the present invention to provide an applicator comprising a cover that allows to place the applicator inversely allowing the content to flow down into the applying medium and soak the applying medium ready to use . [Oil] In order to achieve one or more objects , the present invention provides an applicator for storing and dispensing content . The applicator includes a casing having cut-sections and an open top . The applicator includes a container having a housing . The housing stores content such as soap, a gel , a care product , a cleaning agent , or a cosmetic product . The applicator includes an applying member comprising an applying medium. The applying medium includes a sponge , a brush , or a loofah .

[012] The casing receives the container through the open top and the applying member connects to the container . A user squeezes the housing by placing his fingers through the cutsections such that the content flows into and soaks the applying medium. The soaked applying medium is scrubbed against the user ' s body /hands or dishes depending on the need . [013 ] The applicator includes a cover for sealing the applying member . The cover includes a cup-like structure having ridges at its outer surface and an extending member at its inner surface . The applying medium includes an opening for receiving the extending member when the cover is closed over the applying member .

[014] When not in use , the user positions the applicator inversely such that the ridges rest over a surface and prevent the cover from coming in contact with the surface . Further , the content from the container flows down into the applying medium due to the gravitational force and helps to keep the applying medium soaked and ready to use instantly .

[015] The applicator can be used directly or with the help of a handle . The handle includes an elongated arm having a circular rim. The circular rim receives the casing . The user holds the elongated arm and uses the applicator to apply the content with the help of the applying medium.

[016] In one implementation , the container is configured to be disposable after single use . In another implementation , the container is refilled using a refilling device or ( external ) liquid container .

[017 ] In one advantageous feature of the present invention , the applicator presents a unique mechanism of dispensing the content upon squeezing the housing through the cut-sections of the casing . Further , the applicator is portable and helps the user to use it directly or with the help of the handle depending on the need .

[018] In another advantageous feature of the present invention , the container can be replaced after single use . Alternatively, the user can refill the container with the content from a liquid container and prolong the life of the applicator . [ 019] Features and advantages of the subject matter hereof will become more apparent in light of the following detailed description of selected embodiments , as illustrated in the accompanying FIGURES . As will be realised, the subject matter disclosed is capable of modifications in various respects , all without departing from the scope of the subject matter .

Accordingly , the drawings and the description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature .

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[020] Further features and advantages of the present subject matter will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in combination with the appended drawings, in which :

[021] FIGURE 1 illustrates an environment in which a user uses an applicator for storing and dispensing content, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention;

[022] FIGURE 2 illustrates a perspective view of the applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[023] FIGURE 3 illustrates a perspective view of a casing, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[024] FIGURE 4 illustrates a perspective view of a container, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[025] FIGURE 5 illustrates a perspective view of an applying member, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[026] FIGURE 6 illustrates a perspective view of a cover, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[027] FIGURE 7A illustrates a feature of aligning the casing, the container and the applying member, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[028] FIGURE 7B illustrates a perspective view of the casing receiving the container and the applying member connecting the container, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[029] FIGURE 8 illustrates a front view of the applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; [030] FIGURE 9 illustrates a front view of the applicator positioned inversely over a surface, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[031] FIGURE 10 illustrates an operational view of the applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[032] FIGURE 11 illustrates a top view of the handle, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[033] FIGURE 12 illustrates a side view of the handle receiving the applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[034] FIGURE 13 illustrates a perspective view of a handle, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention; [035] FIGURE 14 illustrates a perspective view of the handle receiving the applicator, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

[036] FIGURES 15 and 16 illustrate a feature of refilling the container and the applying medium, respectively with a refilling device, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[037] FIGURE 17 illustrates a perspective view of the container being refilled with a liquid container, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

[038] FIGURE 18 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[039] FIGURE 19 illustrates a perspective view of the applicator in Figure 18;

[040] FIGURE 20 illustrates a different perspective view of the applicator in Figure 18;

[041] FIGURE 21 illustrates a different perspective view of the applicator in Figure 18; [042] FIGURE 22 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[043] FIGURE 23 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, with cap removed;

[044] FIGURE 24 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention in Figure 24, with cap closed;

[045] FIGURE 25 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[046] FIGURE 26 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention in Figure 25, with a handle connected;

[047] FIGURE 27 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[048] FIGURE 28 illustrates a different perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention in FIGURE 27;

[049] FIGURE 29 illustrates a perspective view of a cap for the applicator in both FIGURE 27 and FIGURE 28;

[050] FIGURE 30 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[051] FIGURE 31 illustrates a different perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention in FIGURE 30;

[052] FIGURE 32 illustrates a perspective view of a cap for the applicator in both FIGURE 30 and FIGURE 31; [053] FIGURE 33 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an applicator with a handle, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[054] FIGURE 34 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention in FIGURE 33;

[055] FIGURE 35 illustrates a different perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention in both FIGURE 33 and FIGURE 34;

[056] FIGURE 36 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an applicator without the handle, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention in FIGURE 33, FIGURE 34 and Figure 35;

[057] FIGURE 37 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[058] FIGURE 38 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[059] FIGURE 39 illustrates another different perspective view of an applicator in FIGURE 38;

[060] FIGURE 40 illustrates a flow chart of a method of producing an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

[061] FIGURE 41 illustrates a flow chart of a method of assembling an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; and

[062] FIGURE 42 illustrates a schematic diagram of a system for assembling an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

[063] It will be noted that throughout the appended drawings, like features are identified by like reference numerals. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[064] Before the present features and working principle of an applicator is described , it is to be understood that this subject matter is not limited to the particular applicator as described, since it may vary within the specification indicated . Various features of an applicator might be provided by introducing variations within the components /subcomponents disclosed herein . It is also to be understood that the terminology used in the description is for the purpose of describing the particular versions or embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present subject matter , which will be limited only by the appended claims . The words "comprising , " "having, " "containing , " and " including, " and other forms thereof , are intended to be equivalent in meaning and be open-ended in that an item or items following any one of these words is not meant to be an exhaustive listing of such item or items , or meant to be limited to only the listed item or items . [065] It should be understood that the present invention describes an applicator for storing and dispensing content . The applicator for storing and dispensing content comprises a container comprising a housing with an opening, wherein the housing for filing with content ; a cap for closing the opening in an air tight way for storing the content and able to be removed for dispensing the content , wherein the housing further comprises an adapter , which is suit for being held by hand, connected to a finger or a handle .

[066] In one embodiment , the applicator comprises a casing having cut-sections and an open top . The applicator comprises a container having a housing . The housing stores content ( solid, liquid, semi-solid or semi-liquid ) such as soap, a gel , a care product , a cleaning agent , or a cosmetic product . The applicator comprises an applying member comprising an applying medium such as a sponge , a brush , or a loofah . The casing receives the container through the open top and the applying member connects to the container . A user squeezes the housing through the cutsections such that the content flows into and soaks the applying medium for applying the content for bathing, washing the hands , washing of dishes , and the like . The applicator further comprises a cover for sealing the applying member .

[ 067 ] Various features and embodiments of an applicator for storing and dispensing content are explained in conjunction with the description of FIGURES 1-17 .

[ 068 ] FIGURE 1 shows an environment 10 of applicator 12 storing and dispensing content for domestic use such as bathing, washing the hands , washing of dishes , and the like, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention . In one example , user 14 holds applicator 12 with his/her hand 16. In another example , user 14 holds handle 16 connecting applicator 12 , as shown in FIGURE 1.

[ 069] FIGURE 2 shows a perspective view of applicator 12 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention . Applicator 12 includes casing 20, container 22 , applying member 24 and cover 26. FIGURE 3 shows a perspective view of casing 20 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention . Casing 20 includes enclosing member 28. Enclosing member 28 provides a material made of metal , plastic , wood, or any other suitable material . Enclosing member 28 comes in a cylindrical structure having base 30 at the bottom and open top 32. Here , open top 32 forms an opening for receiving container 22. Enclosing member 28 presents cut-sections 34. In one example , cut-sections 34 are formed by removing a portion of enclosing member 28. In another example , enclosing member 28 is machined as a single component having cut-sections 34. [ 070] FIGURE 4 shows a perspective view of container 22 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention . Container 22 presents housing 36. Housing 36 comes in a cylindrical configuration . In one example , housing 36 provides a flexible material such as plastic or silicone material . Housing 36 includes rim 38 at its top circumference . Rim 38 provides a material made of metal , plastic , wood, or any other suitable material . In accordance with the present invention , housing 36 stores content . In one example , the content includes soap, gel , cleaning agent /chemical , and the like in solid , liquid, semisolid or semi-liquid form. In another example , the liquid includes a cleansing agent or disinfectant agent such as alcohol .

[ 071 ] Housing 36 presents layer 40 having pores 42 at the top . Pores 42 help to receive and store content in housing 36. As specified above , housing 36 provides a flexible material . As such , upon pressing or squeezing, the content gets dispensed through pores 42 .

[ 072 ] FIGURE 5 shows a perspective view of applying member 24 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention . Applying member 24 encompasses rim connector 44 made of metal , plastic or any other suitable material . Rim connector 44 comes in the shape of rim 38 and has a diameter smaller than rim 38. Rim connector 44 snugly fits into rim 38 and connects applying member 24 to container 22. Rim connector 44 includes applying medium 46. Applying medium 46 includes sponge , bristles/brush , absorbent material , and the like . For example , applying medium 46 includes , but not limited to , polyethylene felt sponge , polyethylene foam sponge , plastic foam sponge and silicone foam sponge and other sponge-like materials such as a felt or other absorbent materials . In one embodiment , applying medium 46 includes opening 48 at the top, as shown in FIGURE 5. Opening 48 is formed at the thick portion of applying medium 46 such that opening 48 receives extending member 59 of cover 26 when cover 26 is connected to applying member 24.

[ 073 ] FIGURE 6 shows a bottom side perspective view of cover 26 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention . Cover 26 includes cup-like structure 50 made of transparent or semi-transparent or opaque material depending on the need . Cuplike structure 50 provides a material made of metal , plastic , wood, or any other suitable material . Cup-like structure 50 presents opening 52 at the bottom. Cup-like structure 50 presents step section 54 at the end . At the top, cup-like structure 50 includes ridges 58. Ridges 58 extend from the outer surface of cup-like structure 50. Further , cup-like structure 50 includes extending member 59. Extending member 59 extends from the inner side or inner surface of cup-like structure 50 towards opening 52. When cover 26 is placed over applying member 24 , extending member 59 plugs opening 48 on applying medium 46 and prevents leakage .

[ 074 ] In order to connect casing 20, container 22 , applying member 24 and cover 26 , at first , casing 20, container 22 and applying member 24 are aligned as shown in FIGURE 7A. After aligning, casing 20 receives container 22 through open top 32. Subsequently, applying member 24 connects to container 22. Here , rim connector 44 snugly fits into rim 38 and connects applying member 24 to container 22. FIGURE 7B shows a perspective view of casing 20 receiving container 22 , and applying member 24 connecting container 22 . Further , cover 26 places over applying member 24 and connects to container 22 , as shown in FIGURE 8. When not in use , casing 20 is placed over surface S such as ground or table . When casing 20 is placed over surface S, cover 26 positions at the top as shown in FIGURE 8. Prior to using or when the content in housing 22 is low, user 14 overturns applicator 12 such that cover 26 rests over surface S as shown in FIGURE 9. Here , cover 26 positions at the bottom such that ridges 58 come in contact with surface S and prevents cup-like structure 50 from coming in direct contact with surface S . When applicator 12 positions inversely as shown in FIGURE 9 , the content from housing 22 enters applying member 24 through pores 42 due to gravitational force . This ensures , applying member 24 is soaked with content and ready for use .

[ 075] FIGURE 10 shows a feature of user 14 holding applicator 12 to dispense content into applying member 24 . In order to dispense the content , at first , user 14 removes cover 26. Subsequently, user 14 inserts his finger through cut-sections 34 and presses housing 22. Pressing housing 22 through cut-sections 34 squeezes housing 22 from both sides and exerts pressure resulting in the content to f low out through pores 42. The content flows out of housing 22 and soaks applying medium 46. The soaked applying medium 46 is then used to apply content over the user ' s body for bathing or washing the hands , for example . Considering that the content is a washing gel , then user 14 presses applying medium 46 against dishes and applies the content to clean the dishes . In the present implementation , user 14 uses applicator 12 without the need for handle 18 .

[ 076 ] In another embodiment , user 14 holds handle 18 to use applicator 12 as shown in FIGURE 1. FIGURE 11 shows a top view of handle 18 , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention . Handle 18 provides a material made of metal , plastic , wood, or any other suitable material . Handle 18 includes elongated arm 60. Elongated arm 60 has circular rim 62 at one end . Circular rim 62 has a circumf erence/diameter slightly larger than enclosing member 28. Circular rim 62 presents opening 64 for receiving applicator 12. Here , enclosing member 28 inserts through opening 64 and rim connector 44 rests against circular rim 62 such that applying medium 46 faces upwards , as shown in FIGURE 11. FIGURE 12 shows a side view of handle 18 receiving casing 20. After inserting applicator 12 through circular rim 62 , user 14 holds elongated arm 62 and uses applicator 12 for applying content onto his body, as shown in FIGURE 1 , for example . Similarly, user 14 holds extended arm 62 and uses applicator 12 for washing dishes , tiles , etc .

[ 077 ] FIGURE 13 shows a top view of handle 100, in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention . Handle 100 includes elongated arm 102. Elongated arm 102 presents extended arms 104. Extended arms 104 position parallel to each other and extend from elongated arm 102 . Extended arms 104 encompasses circular rim 106 at one end . Circular rim 106 has a circumference/diameter slightly larger than enclosing member 28. Circular rim 106 presents opening 108 for receiving applicator 12. Here , enclosing member 28 inserts through opening 108 and rim connector 44 rests against circular rim 106 such that applying medium 46 faces upwards . FIGURE 14 shows a perspective view of handle 100 receiving casing 20 in opening 108. After inserting applicator 12 through circular rim 106 , user 14 holds elongated arm 102 and uses applicator 12 for applying content onto his body or for washing dishes depending on the need .

[ 078 ] In one implementation , container 22 is used only once and disposed of after emptying the content stored therein . Subsequently, a new container 22 is replaced in casing 20 and used as explained above .

[ 079] In another implementation , container 22 is refilled with the content and the life of container 22 is prolonged . In one example , container 22 is refilled using refilling device 200, such as a syringe . FIGURE 15 shows a feature of container 22 being refilled using refilling device 200, in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention . Refilling device 200 includes barrel 202 and plunger 204 . Barrel 202 includes a needle ( not shown ) . User 14 draws a predefined quantity of content into barrel 202 from a sachet or a bottle or a liquid container storing the content i . e . , liquid . Subsequently, user 14 inserts the needle into housing 36 through pores 42 and presses plunger 204 to refill housing 36 with the content .

[ 080] Alternatively, user 14 injects the content directly into applying medium 46 . FIGURE 16 shows a feature of applying medium 46 injected with the content . In one example , user 14 injects the content directly into applying medium 46 and holds applying member 24 in his hand for bathing, washing the hands , washing of dishes , and the like depending on the need .

[ 081 ] In yet another embodiment , container 22 is refilled from a liquid container storing the content . FIGURE 17 shows a feature of liquid container 300 dispensing the content into container 22 , in accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the present invention . Liquid container 300 includes dispensing member or neck 302. Here , user 14 aligns dispensing member 302 with pores 42 and refills the content in housing 36 from liquid container 300. After refilling, user 14 places container 22 in casing 20 and uses applicator 12 for applying the content for bathing, washing the hands , washing of dishes , and the like .

[ 082 ] FIGURE 18 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an applicator , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention ; FIGURE 19 illustrates a perspective view of the applicator in Figure 18 ; FIGURE 20 illustrates a different perspective view of the applicator in FIGURE 18 ; and FIGURE 21 illustrates a different perspective view of the applicator in FIGURE 18.

[ 083 ] Referring to FIGURES 18-21 , the applicator 70 is presented in detail . The applicator 70 comprises a container consists of a housing 73 , with a top opening and a bottom opening . The top opening is sealed by a diaphragm 72 , and the diaphragm 72 is pressed between the top opening and a top cap 71. A sponge 74 is contained into the housing 73 , with cleaning or smoothing liquid or gel absorbed in it . A bottom cap 76 with rotating bars on both sides is connected to the both side of the housing 73 in length direction , and can rotate around a shaft in length direction , so that the bottom cap 76 can open or close the bottom opening and the sponge 74. The rotating bars are designed to press the bottom cap 76 onto the bottom opening and prevent it opening when it closes the bottom opening . The top cap 71 comprises a hole on it , through which the diaphragm 72 can be pressed when the bottom opening is open , so that the sponge 74 is pressed as well and the cleaning or smoothing liquid or gel is distributed and applied to a cleaning or smoothing surface , such as face of a user .

[ 084 ] FIGURE 22 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an applicator , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention . The embodiment in FIGURE 22 is similar to that in FIGURE 21 , and difference only lies in that a cover 77 ' is configured onto surface of the sponge 74 ' , which can be used to prevent leakage of the liquid or gel absorbed in the sponge 74 ' , and can also be used to prevent dirt particles sticking to surface of the sponge 74 ' . In later case , the cover can be a filter .

[ 085] FIGURE 23 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention , with cap removed; and FIGURE 24 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention in FIGURE 24 , with cap closed . [086] Refer to both FIGURE 23 and FIGURE 24, an applicator 80 is presented in detail. The applicator 80 comprises a housing 83 with an opening at one end and an adapter 89 at one closed end, and a sponge 84 contained into a chamber surrounded by the housing 83, with a portion extending outside the opening of the housing 83. Cleaning or smoothing liquid or gel can be absorbed into the sponge 84 for being applied to a surface to be cleaned or smoothed, such as face of a user.

[087] The applicator 80 can also comprises a cap 81, with a friction inner surface. The outer surface surrounding the opening of the housing 83 can also be a friction surface. The cap 81 can be mounted to the opening to seal the housing to prevent leakage of the cleaning or smoothing liquid or gel by mating of the friction inner surface of the cap 81 and the outer friction surface surrounding the opening of the housing 83.

[088] The adapter 89 can receives an existing tool as a handle to be held by a user more conveniently. The existing tool can be a shaver or a finger of the user.

[089] The housing 83 and/or the cap 81 can be made of a flexible material, so that they can be pressed to distribute the cleaning or smoothing liquid or gel from the sponge 84.

[090] FIGURE 25 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; and FIGURE 26 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention in Figure 25, with a handle connected.

[091] Refer to both FIGURE 25 and Figure 26, an applicator 80' is presented in detail. The applicator 80' comprises a housing 83' with an opening at one end and an adapter 89' at one closed end, and a sponge 84' contained into a chamber surrounded by the housing 83', with a portion extending outside the opening of the housing 83'. The end with the adapter 89' comprises a hole 891'. Cleaning or smoothing liquid or gel can be filled into the housing 83' through the hole 891' for being distributed .

[092] The applicator 80' can also comprises a cut-out portion 82', sealed with a diaphragm. The diaphragm can be pressed to distribute the cleaning or smoothing liquid or gel.

[093] The adapter 89' can receive an existing tool as a handle to be held by a user more conveniently. The existing tool can be a shaver or a finger of the user. The adapter 89' can also receive a handle with a plug to removablely block the hole 891' .

[094] FIGURE 27 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 28 illustrates a different perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention in FIGURE 27; and FIGURE 29 illustrates a perspective view of a cap for the applicator in both FIGURE 27 and FIGURE 28.

[095] Referring to FIGURES 27-29, the applicator 90 is presented in detail. The applicator 90 comprises a container consists of a housing 93, with an opening 921 at one end and an adapter 99 at the other closed end. The opening 921 is inclined if the applicator 90 is in a vertical position with two ends in a vertical direction. The applicator 90 doesn't need to comprise a sponge, so that the inclined opening 921 is more convenient to apply liquid or gel contained in the housing onto a cleaning or smoothing surface, such as face of a user.

[096] The applicator 90 can also comprises a cap 91, with a friction inner surface. The opening 921 of the housing 93 can comprises a rim and an extending edge whose outer surface can also be a friction surface. The cap 91 can be mounted to the opening 921 to abutting against the rim, with the inner friction surface of the cap 91 and outer friction surface of the extending edge mating together to seal the housing 93 to prevent leakage of the cleaning or smoothing liquid or gel.

[097] The adapter 99 can receives an existing tool as a handle to be held by a user more conveniently. The existing tool can be a shaver or a finger of the user.

[098] At least one or both sides 931 of the housing 93 can be made of a flexible material, so that they can be pressed to distribute the cleaning or smoothing liquid or gel from the housing 93.

[099] FIGURE 30 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 31 illustrates a different perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention in FIGURE 30; and FIGURE 32 illustrates a perspective view of a cap for the applicator in both FIGURE 30 and FIGURE 31.

[0100] Referring to FIGURES 30-32, the applicator 90 is presented in detail. The applicator 90' comprises a container consists of a housing 93', with an opening 921' at one end and an adapter 99' at the other closed end. The opening 921' is inclined if the applicator 90' is in a vertical position with two ends in a vertical direction. The applicator 90' doesn't need to comprise a sponge, so that the inclined opening 921' is more convenient to apply liquid or gel contained in the housing 93' onto a cleaning or smoothing surface, such as face of a user.

[0101] The applicator 90' can also comprises a cap 91', with a friction inner surface. The opening of the housing 93' can comprises a rim and an extending edge whose outer surface can also be a friction surface. The cap 91' can be mounted to the opening to abutting against the rim, with the inner friction surface of the cap 91' and outer friction surface of the extending edge mating together to seal the housing 93' to prevent leakage of the cleaning or smoothing liquid or gel. [0102] The adapter 99' can receives an existing tool as a handle to be held by a user more conveniently. The existing tool can be a shaver or a finger of the user. [0103] At least one side 931' of the housing 93' comprise a hole sealed by a diaphragm 92'. The diaphragm 92' can be made of a flexible material, so that they can be pressed to distribute the cleaning or smoothing liquid or gel from the housing 93'. [0104] FIGURE 33 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an applicator with a handle, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 34 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention in FIGURE 33; FIGURE 35 illustrates a different perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention in both FIGURE 33 and FIGURE 34; and FIGURE 36 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an applicator without the handle, in accordance with the embodiment of the present invention in FIGURE 33, FIGURE 34 and FIGURE 35.

[0105] Refer to both FIGURES 33-36, an applicator 400 is presented in detail. The applicator 400 comprises a housing 403 with an opening at one end and an adapter 409 at the other end, and a sponge 404 contained into a chamber surrounded by the housing 403, with a portion extending outside the opening of the housing 403. Cleaning or smoothing liquid or gel can be absorbed into the sponge 404 for being applied to a surface to be cleaned or smoothed, such as face of a user.

[0106] The applicator 404 can also comprises a cap 401, with a friction inner surface. The outer surface surrounding the opening of the housing 403 can also be a friction surface. The cap 401 can be mounted to the opening to seal the housing 403 to prevent leakage of the cleaning or smoothing liquid or gel by mating of the friction inner surface of the cap 401 and the outer friction surface surrounding the opening of the housing 403 .

[ 0107 ] The adapter 409 can receives a handle 4092 to be held by a user more conveniently . The end with adapter 409 also comprises a hole , which can be used to refile the cleaning or smoothing liquid or gel into the housing 403 . The handle 4092 comprises a plug together with a connector for mating with the adapter 409 at one end . When the handle 4092 is connected with the adapter 409 , the plug is inserted into the hole to form a seal to prevent leakage of the liquid and gel . In this embodiment , the applicator 400 is mounted onto the handle with longer side parallel with the horizontal direction in the drawing .

[ 0108 ] Furthermore , the sponge 404 comprises a hole in cross shape which can be used to distribute liquid or gel more conveniently . Another function of the hole in cross shape is it can receive a pin or an extending member ( not shown in this embodiment ) extending from inner surface of the cap 401. By mating of the hole in cross shape and the pin or the extending member , seal is further ensured and the cap 401 is prevented from falling off from the housing 403 .

[ 0109 ] FIGURE 37 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention .

[ 0110] The embodiment in FIGURE 37 is similar to that in FIGURES 33-36. Difference only lie in that applicator 400 ' is mounted onto the handle 4092 ' with longer side parallel with the vertical direction in the drawing . [0111] The adapters in FIGURES 18-37 are designed to prevent the applicator from rotating relative to the handle while mating with the handle.

[0112] FIGURE 38 illustrates a perspective view of an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; FIGURE 39 illustrates another different perspective view of an applicator in FIGURE 38.

[0113] Refer to FIGURE 38 and FIGURE 39, an applicator 500 is presented in detail. The applicator 500 comprises a housing 503 with an opening, wherein the housing 503 for filing with content; a cap 501 for closing the opening in an air tight way for storing the content and able to be removed for dispensing the content. At least a part of the housing 503 is made of a flexible material, which part acts as a pressing part. In this embodiment, the whole housing 503 can be made of a flexible material, and the whole housing 503 acts as a pressing part. By pressing the pressing part, the content, which is a sponge 504 absorbing cleaning or smoothing liquid or gel is pressed, and liquid or gel is dispensed and applied on a surface, such as a face.

[0114] The presently disclosed applicator can be used to apply gel or soap while taking a bath. Further, presently disclosed applicator can be used to apply cosmetic products, gel, foam, on the body or face of the user. Alternatively, the presently disclosed applicator can be used to apply gel or soap for washing dishes, pots, cookware, tiles, utensils and the like. The applicator includes a cap that prevents leakage of the content from the applying medium when not in use. Further, the applicator can be positioned inversely when the content in the housing is low such that the liquid flows down the applying medium and helps to use the content entirely. This greatly reduces the wastage of the content. Further, the container can be swapped or replaced whenever needed. Further, the applicator comprises a handle for receiving the applicator or its adapter can receive an existing elongated tool, such as a shaver or a finger of a user.

[0115] FIGURE 40 illustrates a flow chart of a method of producing an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] The method of producing an applicator comprises the steps of: pressing molds 1701; producing a housing with at least a part made of flexible material, a cap and applying medium 1702; and assembling the housing, the cap and the applying medium 1703. [0117] FIGURE 41 illustrates a flow chart of a method of assembling an applicator, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

[0118] The method of assembling an applicator comprises the steps of: a) conveying a housing; b) conveying an applying medium; c) installing the applying medium into the housing; d) conveying an assembly of the housing with the applying medium; e) conveying a cap; and f) installing the cap onto the assembly of the housing with the applying medium to form the applicator. [0119] Between a) and b) , the method of assembling an applicator can further include: g) conveying a sealing plate; and h) installing the sealing plate onto a bottom of a cavity in the housing.

[0120] When the applying medium was installed on the sealing plate, the method of assembling an applicator can further comprise i) conveying a membrane seal; and j) installing the membrane seal on the applying medium installed into the housing. [0121] After step f ) , the method of assembling an applicator can further comprise k) conveying the applicator for packing. [ 0122 ] FIGURE 42 illustrates a schematic diagram of a system for assembling an applicator , in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention .

[ 0123 ] In FIGURE 42 , it shows a system for assembling an applicator , comprising : a first flow line 1801 , for conveying a housing; a second flow line 1802 , for conveying an applying medium; a third f low line 1804 for conveying an assembly of the housing with the applying medium; and a fourth flow line 1803 , for conveying a cap . The first flow line 1801 and the second flow line 1802 meet in a first station 1808 , for installing the applying medium in the housing; the third flow line 1804 starts from the first station 1808 and meets with the fourth flow line 1803 in a second station 1809 , for installing the cap onto the assembly of the housing with the applying medium to form the applicator .

[ 0124 ] The system for assembling an applicator further comprises a fifth flow line 1805 for conveying the applicator for packing , starting from the second station 1809.

[ 0125 ] The system for assembling an applicator further comprises a sixth flow line 1806 for conveying a sealing plate , meeting with the first flow line 1803 at a third station 1810 upstream of the first station 1808 , for installing the sealing plate onto a bottom of a cavity of the housing .

[ 0126 ] The system for assembling an applicator further comprises a seventh flow line 1807 for conveying a membrane seal for sealing the applying medium. The third flow line 1804 and the seventh flow line 1807 meet in a fourth station 1811 following the first station 1808 preceding the second station 1809 , for installing the membrane seal onto the applying medium installed into the housing .

[ 0127 ] A person skilled in the art appreciates that the applicator may come in a variety of sizes depending on the need and comfort of the user . Further , different materials in addition to or instead of materials described herein may also be used and such implementations may be construed to be within the scope of the present subject matter . Further , many changes in the design and placement of components may take place without deviating from the scope of the presently disclosed applicator . [0128 ] In the above description , numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of some embodiments , specific components , devices , methods , in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present subject matter . It will be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art that these specific details need not be employed, and should not be construed to limit the scope of the subject matter .

[0129] In the development of any actual implementation , numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer ' s specific goals , such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints . Such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but may nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design , fabrication , and manufacture for those of ordinary skill . Hence as various changes could be made in the above constructions without departing from the scope of the subject matter , it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense .

[0130] The foregoing description of embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the subject matter . Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art , and the novel principles and subject matter disclosed herein may be applied to other embodiments without the use of the innovative faculty . It is contemplated that additional embodiments are within the spirit and true scope of the disclosed subject matter .